Ayurvedic massage
Ayurvedic massage is becoming more and more popular by the day. In fact, we have observed that sometimes people identify Ayurveda with ‘massage’, which is a very sad state of affairs as far as Ayurveda is concerned. By this, we don’t mean that massage is not important, nor do we underestimate the importance of massage as a therapeutic and relaxation measure. In fact, it is the mainstay of the treatment of many diseases.
Historical background
The word massage originates from the corresponding Greek equivalent of ‘masso’, which means touch. It is simply defined as manual manipulation of soft body tissues (muscles, connective tissues, tendons, and ligaments). In India, its country of origin, Ayurvedic massage is a ritual that hasn’t changed over the years.
In rural areas, weekly massage is still very much a part of the lifestyle. People of all age groups enjoy it. They know that, like a best friend, it brings joy and relaxation. Massage is also a norm for the mother and child after delivery.
Today, we see doctors offering Ayurvedic massage services, particularly in tourist areas. This was not the case in the past, when everyone used to give and take massages in their home, and only for particular health conditions, people used to go to specialists who used to employ appropriate techniques.
Massage is a part and parcel of Ayurvedic science. It has been mentioned in the texts as ‘purvakarma’ or pretreatment procedure for ‘Panchakarma’ therapies, also known as ‘Abhyanga’. Apart from this, it is also mentioned as part of the treatment protocol for many diseases. When stimulated through therapeutic touch or massage, the skin releases a no. of chemicals that have a health-promoting effect on the physiology.
Benefits
In diseases caused by deranged Vata, massage therapy can play a significant role, whereas in diseases caused by deranged ‘Pitta’ and ‘Kapha’, Ayurvedic massage therapy complements other healing methods. It is relaxing, improves circulation, and eliminates toxins.
Ayurvedic massage plays a significant role in curing various forms of arthritis, gout, rheumatism, sciatica, neurasthenia, high/low blood pressure, paralysis, headaches, congestion in the sinus, and insomnia etc.
In all these cases, the massage practitioners should, however, also prescribe specific medication, changes in
daily habits, exercise, and food.
By practicing nonviolence, contentment, abstaining from malice, jealousy, and envy, by maintaining a good vegetarian diet, and by employing Ayurvedic beauty massage, breathing exercises, and meditation, one can help the body restore its natural radiance and beauty. The practice of massage alone without implementing a change in habits and lifestyle is not sufficient.
Techniques
• Abhyanga, a full-body massage using oil, followed by a warm bath
• Pizhichil, in which medicated oil is used during a massage of the whole body
• Sirodhara, in which oil is massaged into the forehead to alleviate anxiety and depression
• Nhavarakizhi, in which medicinal porridge is made into a poultice and wrapped around the body to encourage sweating
• Udvarthanam is a type of massage to reduce weight. In this massage, herbal powder is rubbed into the skin.
Massage oils
A typical Ayurvedic massage involves the use of oils or pastes based on herbal and animal resources. The oil is premedicated with herbs for specific conditions. Oil massage, by way of enhancing the softness and suppleness of the skin, not only increases the vitality but also controls the signs of premature ageing.
If the body is rubbed dry, the friction created generates heat and pain, which aggravates the element of Vata (wind) and thus disturbs the gases in the body. Massage oils eliminate friction and disperse heat evenly throughout the body.
Massage oils are a nutrient for the skin and strengthen the nerve fibres that are connected to hair follicles and vessels attached to the skin. The small amount of massage oils remaining on the skin after a shower that follows provides resistance to environmental temperatures and pressures.
Application of oils to the naval area before going to sleep cures dryness of the whole body. The elimination of bodily toxins is achieved by sweating. It helps in the balanced secretion of hormones or ‘endorphins’ so that the immunological system is enhanced. As a holistic therapy, it makes for the overall rejuvenation of the mind and the body.
Aggravated Dosha
Primary massage oils
Vata Sesame
Pitta Coconut
Kapha Mustard or Olive
